The area of Segorbe was inhabited as early as the mid-Palaeolithic Age, as testified by archaeological remains. Segorbe’s ancient name was Segobriga, the capital of Celtiberia.
In the 8th century Segorbe was occupied by the Moors from North Africa and its cathedral became a mosque. Segorbe was the residence of Zayd Abu Zayd, the last Moorish governor of Valencia. After his conversion to Christianity, Segorbe became a base for the conquest of Valencia in 1238. In 1435 it became part of the royal estates of the Kingdom of Aragon, founded by King Ferdinand.
The Cathedral of Segorbe was consecrated in 1534 and extended in 1795. It is connected by a bridge with the old episcopal palace. Its tower and its cloister are built on a trapezoidal ground-plan.
Segorbe’s ancient castle was perhaps located over an Iberian acropolis. It originated as a Moorish alcazar (castle/palace ) and had its period of highest splendour in the later 15th century. In 1784, urban expansion of Segorbe beyond the original medieval fortifications required further construction, and new walls were built. After the works were completed, the new walls had eight gates known as Teruel, Argén, Sopeña, Cárrica, Castellnovo, Valencia, La Maza, and Altura. After this period the castle steadily declined in use and importance and from the mid-18th century, its materials were used for the construction of the local hospital.
